How to Sell a Car Privately in Quebec
The SAAQ allows private transfers online via SAAQclic (if eligible) or in person at a service outlet. This checklist covers the SAAQclic eligibility rules, what both parties bring to a service outlet, how QST is calculated, and why finishing the transfer promptly protects the seller.
Seller checklist (Quebec)
- Check SAAQclic eligibility for online transfer. Online transfers through SAAQclic are available if the vehicle has a single registered owner and the seller has no unpaid fines. Some vehicle types and edge cases still require an in-person transfer — check SAAQ's fact sheet for current eligibility rules before scheduling.
- Prepare the bill of sale and vehicle details. Include the VIN, year/make/model, sale price, date, odometer reading, and both parties' names, addresses, and signatures. The price drives the QST calculation at transfer, so keep it accurate.
- Bring required identification for in-person transfers. At a service outlet, both buyer and seller must show a driver's licence or another official photo ID document. The buyer also needs to provide the odometer reading at the counter.
- Complete the transfer promptly and cancel insurance. Until the SAAQ transfer is completed, the seller may remain responsible for the vehicle — finish the transfer the same day if possible. Once done, contact your insurer to cancel or transfer the policy.
Buyer steps after the sale
- Arrange valid insurance before taking delivery of the vehicle.
- Provide the vehicle's odometer reading at the service outlet or during the SAAQclic process.
- Accept or complete the transfer within any time limit stated by SAAQ — check the SAAQ guide for online transfers for current timelines.
- For vehicles 14 years old or less (rule effective January 2025), QST is collected on the greater of the agreed selling price or the estimated value — the number on the bill of sale should match what you declare.
- Bring a driver's licence or another official photo ID if completing the transfer at a SAAQ service outlet.
Additional notes
- SAAQ advises that until the transfer is completed, the seller may remain responsible for the vehicle — including tickets and accidents. Both parties have an interest in finishing promptly.
- For vehicles 14 years old or less (rule effective January 2025), QST is calculated on the greater of selling price or SAAQ's estimated value — so a bill of sale that understates the price won't reduce tax, but it will create a paperwork mismatch.
- SAAQclic eligibility is narrower than most buyers expect — if the vehicle is co-owned or the seller has unpaid fines, the transfer has to be in person. Check SAAQ's current eligibility rules before scheduling.
Official sources
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